Today, a historic event took place at the Baikonur Cosmodrome: the first test launch of the prospective medium-lift launch vehicle Soyuz-5/Sunkar was successfully carried out from Site 45 as part of the Baiterek Space Rocket Complex.

As part of the flight design tests, both the first and second stages of the rocket performed nominally, and a mass-and-dimension simulator payload was successfully placed onto the target trajectory. This launch confirmed the full operational readiness of this complex engineering facility to expand Kazakhstan’s presence in the global space services market. The Baiterek project represents a strategic achievement, enabling the country to transition to operating its own modern launch infrastructure.

As part of the project, extensive work was carried out to modernize ground infrastructure, including the construction and adaptation of launch systems, control systems, fueling systems, and safety systems. The implemented solutions ensure a high level of automation in pre-launch operations and meet international reliability standards.

The implementation of the Baiterek Space Rocket Complex is one of the most technologically complex projects in recent years. A modern facility has been created that fully meets automation and safety requirements. Today’s launch demonstrates that Kazakhstan has developed all the necessary components for full participation in the global space industry, including its own launch infrastructure, national satellite projects, and highly qualified engineering personnel.

The successful launch of the Baiterek rocket complex opens up new opportunities for space exploration. The project also contributes to job creation and expands capabilities for delivering a wide range of spacecraft into orbit. Launch preparations were conducted in strict compliance with technological regulations, with priority given to the uninterrupted operation of all systems and components.

More than 40 technical systems are involved in operating the newly created space rocket complex, and their effective integration has been ensured throughout the full testing cycle.

The technical capabilities of the Soyuz-5/Sunkar launch vehicle, developed by the Progress Rocket Space Centre, allow it to deliver up to 17 tonnes of payload into low Earth orbit. The rocket is equipped with powerful and proven engines: the RD-171MV on the first stage and the RD-0124MS on the second stage. The use of Fregat upper stages and various payload fairing configurations provides flexibility for a wide range of mission profiles.

The Baiterek complex and the Soyuz-5/Sunkar launch vehicle represent the future of environmentally friendly spaceflight, using non-toxic propellants such as kerosene and liquid oxygen. This opens new prospects for scientific development and strengthens the country’s industrial potential.

Background

Baiterek Joint Venture JSC is a Kazakh-Russian joint enterprise established to implement the space rocket complex project at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The company is responsible for the development, modernization, and operation of the ground infrastructure for next-generation launch vehicles. The project is being implemented by the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan in cooperation with Russian partners. The Baiterek complex is distinguished by a high level of environmental safety, economic efficiency, and full automation of pre-launch operations.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/maidd/press/news/details/1212920?lang=kk